Laughter and generosity at our first-ever northern… - The Lily Foundation
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Fighting mito,
finding hope.

Laughter and generosity at our first-ever northern Comedy Night!

Events

25 June 2025

Our first-ever northern Comedy Night at Manchester’s legendary Frog and Bucket Comedy Club was a resounding success, raising an amazing £4,000 to help fund vital research and support families affected by mitochondrial disease.

Comedian Jon Richardson on stage at the Frog and Bucket in Manchester MC Sally-Anne Hayward at the Lily norther Comedy Night A packed venue at the Frog and Bucket in Manchester for Lily Comedy Night Josh Jones, headline at act Lily Comedy Night, on stage Sign outside the Frog and Bucket in Manchester advertising The Lily Foundation fundraiser Faizan Shah on stage at the Frog and Bucket Comedy Club in Manchester The crowd waiting for the action to start at the Lily northern Comedy Night in Manchester

The packed-out event, which sold out just weeks after tickets were released, saw a star-studded line-up of comedians take to the stage, delivering a night full of laughter and generosity.

The evening was expertly – and hilariously – hosted by Sally-Anne Hayward, regular tour support for Sarah Millican. The show kicked off with rising stand-up star Faizan Shah, followed by a fantastic set from Jon Richardson, best known for 8 Out of 10 Cats and Meet the Richardsons.

After Jon’s performance, Lily CEO and Founder Liz Curtis took to the stage to speak about the charity’s vital work, followed by a moving film featuring young adult mito patient Elinor – a moment that left barely a dry eye in the house.

The night closed on a high with a brilliant set from Josh Jones, known for appearances on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club and Dancing on Ice.

Liz Curtis, founder of the charity and Lily’s mum, said: “It was a fantastic night – we couldn’t have asked for a better audience, a more talented line-up or a more iconic venue! Every penny raised on the night helps us continue making a real difference to those living with mitochondrial disease. A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported us in our first foray up north.”

We’d also like to say a big thank you to the brilliant team at the Frog and Bucket Comedy Club for hosting the event, and to all the performers who gave their time and talent to support the cause.

If you missed out this time, don’t worry – we’re already planning more fantastic fundraising events, so keep an eye on our events page for updates!

Together, we’re bringing hope to families affected by mitochondrial disease – and having a few laughs along the way.

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